Getting Started

Health Questionnaire
• The health questionnaire is filled out by the patient. This can be obtained by either, by calling our office and requesting an information packet be mailed to you or you can attend our monthly seminar and pick up a packet there. This questionnaire is also available to be printed from the website.
• The questionnaire is then returned to our office via mail or fax.

Insurance Verification
• Insurance is then verified and our office will contact you with insurance benefits.
• Initial consult is then schedule with one of our surgeons.

Prior Requirements
• Psychiatric evaluation is scheduled.
• Nutritional consult is scheduled.
• Patient medical records are requested from primary health care physician.

Insurance Prior Authorization
• Once our office receives all reports above, insurance is pre authorized for surgery.
• Insurance makes a decision on medical necessity.
• If approved by insurance, surgery is scheduled.

Prior to Surgery
• Patient starts on clear liquid diet for 14 days.
• Surgeon meets with the patient, pre-op labs are drawn, chest x-ray, EKG, etc. are done also.
• Surgery is performed.